Buffalo Grove Resident Earns Gold Medal For Service From U.S. Congress

BUFFALO GROVE, IL — Krithik Praveen, a resident of Buffalo Grove, was recently recognized by U.S. Congress with over 500 other awardees across the nation for their achievements in voluntary public service, personal development, physical fitness, and expedition/exploration. Praveen, who attends Aldai E. Stevenson High School, also earned a STEM Star for completing STEM activities in pursuit of their medal, according to a news release.

The Congressional Award Foundation hosted its annual Gold Medal Celebration honoring 549 youth from 41 states across the nation earlier this month.

The Gold Medal takes a minimum of two years to earn, with one of the key aspects of the program instilling proficiency in long-term goal setting. Each participant must complete 800 activity hours across four program areas — 400 hours of voluntary public service, 200 hours of personal development, 200 hours of physical fitness, and conduct a five-day, four-night expedition or exploration trip.

“In earning my Congressional Award Gold Medal, I learned the value of serving my community and following through on long-term goals," Praveen said. "I enjoyed volunteering at my local thrift stores and farmers' market, discovered my passion for technology and business, worked a part-time job at a learning center for young children, and went on my expedition trip to the Rocky Mountains. I overcame many challenges along the way and achieved my goals.”

According to the news release, the livestreamed virtual celebration video took viewers through each state with pre-recorded congratulatory remarks from Members of Congress, both from the House and Senate, followed by brief highlights of the awardees. Each young changemaker was highlighted on-screen with their hometown, the school they attend, and a few self-submitted words about the impact they’ve had through their experience pursuing the medal.